Beatles, buffets and Baileys

...u00a0are some of the most tempting things on offer at The Creative Kitchen in Gurgaon, a fine family diner where kids' cries are well covered up by sexy croon-queen Valentina

When a 40-minute commute turns a two-hour ordeal with the monstrous Metro mess choking all roads, you want the dinner to be nothing less than divine. And it was. The dhin-chak beats blaring from Radisson's many party halls are deceptive at first, but one trip up the elevator is enough to get you high, thanks to the bustling yet blissful 98-seater space on the third floor. The Creative Kitchen welcomes you with a bright buffet spread and cheerful crowd on the first step in, and leaves you with thoughts of loveliness on the last one out. What lies between, follows.

Food

The menu isn't too extensive or elaborate, and you'd thank God for that. No fancy preparations; no fuss. You've heard of most things on their list, and that makes the experience refreshingly simple. It's also devoid of devious starter-ender divisions, except the special breakfast bites. Our portion of chargrilled king prawns (Rs 525) proved pleasurable with its tenderness and golden glow, and the herb-roasted chicken breast (Rs 375), almost as soft as the real deal. The barbequed lamb chops (Rs 375) added spice with the many sauces, and fish 'n' chips (Rs 375) stood an amicable ally to our pegs and pints. Once done with the initial tummy tickling, we began on the bigger servings. The chef specialises in Indian platters, and the Jalandhari gosht and rice (Rs 375) makes for good testimony. For fans of faraway shores, the spaghetti in bolognaise sauce (Rs 350) is a decent option.


Looks best in the buff(et): The sumptuous spread at The Creative Kitchen is every epicurean's dream

The wild mushroom risotto (Rs 350), on the other hand, is only for those who like their food wearing a wine-some smile, and in high spirits.

Drinks

This department's super smooth, even if you've to make do with Chivas Regal instead of Jack Daniel. Our attendant was careful about what percentage of rum we wanted in our daiquiri, and the gimlet tasted just as meticulously mixed at an unbelievable Rs 99 each.

Ambience

As if the lazy lighting and affable air aren't enough to charm, there's a lady who catches your eye and ear the moment you walk in. V for Valentina. We shared a smoke (in the separate smoking area) with the Mizo vocalist, who can take the queen's share of credit for creating the right rhythm and stirring sounds of surrealism. Her music moves from The Beatles to Celine Dion, as you swing between cravings for love, Lennon and lemon. And enjoy every bit.

The Creative Kitchen
Where: Radisson Suites, Sushant Lok, Phase I, Gurgaon
Timings: 7 am to midnight
Average meal for two: Rs 1,500 plus taxes
Ring: 0124-4719000